Consumers were able to access communications services of growing value as prices fell and plan inclusions increased, according to the ACCC’s annual report on competition and price changes in the telecommunications sector in the 2016-17 financial year, released recently.

“At a time when affordability in energy markets is a major concern, competition in the broadband and mobile market is continuing to benefit consumers,” ACCC Acting Chair Delia Rickard said.

The report found real prices of mobile services dropped by an average of 7.1 per cent each year over the same period.

“Consumers are obtaining greater value for money and receiving and using more data each year,” Ms Rickard said.

It also reported that overall demand for communication services continues to grow, more consumers chose to rely on their mobile devices for voice calling in particular, and that new players entering the market will provide further competitive pressure.

One of those new players is Pennytel, a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that resells the Telstra network. Its CEO, Rene Sugo, said that now is the perfect time for people to check that they are getting the best mobile phone deal.

“Over the past few years, complex cap inclusions and high per minute call rates have been replaced with unlimited calls and texts. If you’re still on cap plan with included value, it’s likely you’re not getting the best value from your mobile provider,” he said.

Mr Sugo recommended checking your actual phone usage against what the plan includes. Instead of being locked into a plan with expensive added extras you don’t need, find a simple plan with value for you.

“Not everybody needs adds on such as Sports, Netflix or Spotify, so make sure that you are not needlessly paying for them.”

Another step you can take is to look at the deals being offered by MVNOs. For example, Pennytel is currently offering the first month free to new customers (T&Cs apply, www.pennytel.com.au).

It offers the quality of the Telstra network, but at cheaper rates.

Switching mobile providers is easy: simply contact your new provider and order a plan. In Pennytel's case, you’ll talk to a real person, not a robot.

They'll send you a new SIM card, and you can keep your current phone number.

You don't need to speak to your previous provider but check that you're not in a current contract.

The increase in competition in the telecommunications market means MVNOs are able to offer not only cost savings, but also benefits such as better service and a product that suits you.